Happy Canada Day! We wish everyone a very safe and happy long weekend.

Since this weekend tends to be the unofficial kick-off of summer, here’s some easy ways to keep your dog cool over the next couple of months.

1. Never leave your dog in the car

Temperatures in your car can quickly reach far beyond that of outside temperature even if you’ve parked in the shade. It’s best to either leave your dog at home or take him with you, just don’t leave him in the car, even for 5 minutes.

If you see a dangerous situation with a dog stuck in a hot car don’t hesitate to call your local SPCA who can dispatch someone to help.

2. Be mindful of exercise times & check the pavement

The hotter the temperatures, the hotter the pavement, and that can burn the pads on your dog’s paws. Try to pick the cooler times of the day to get out for any good bursts of exercise, and try to choose cooler grassy areas

3. Keep him hydrated

Keep an extra eye on your dog’s water bowl as they’ll go through it quickly on the warmer days.

It’s a good idea to pick up a travel bowl if you’re planning on taking any trips, adventures or camping and picnicking. On particularly hot days throw in some ice cubes to help keep your pup cool.

Watch for these symptoms of dehydration in dogs:

Sunken eyes

Dry gums

Lethargy

Weakness

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Loss of skin elasticity

4. Make some cool treats

There are a ton of fun treats to make for your dog during the summer months, but the ‘pupsicle’ is our favourite. Here’s a super simple way to whip up this cool treat:

The Summer Pupsicle

Grab an ice cube tray and fill it with either chicken or beef broth, or your liquid of choice depending on your dog’s diet.

Pop those into the freezer and once they’re partially frozen plunk a biscuit or rawhide stick into each one to act as the ‘stick’ (just an extra treat for your dog in this case).

There’s lots of room for variation and to get creative with these; check out this infographic we found.

5. Give him a good brush

Regular brushing will help him shed that winter coat, keeping excess fur to a minimum and helping him to stay cool, not to mention keeping to keep your dog's coat and skin healthy and looking good. If your pup hasn’t had a good brush in a while, it may be time!

This one is especially helpful if your dog is of the super-shaggy, long-coated breed.

6. Move his bed

During the hotter summer months you might find your dog seeking out the coolest parts of your home, often on the ground floor, cool tiles or even the basement. He might just forgo the bed all together when it’s warm, but if he’s used to sleeping on his bed, try moving it to one of those cooler areas so he can be a bit more comfortable.

7. Get some gear to keep him cool

Oh man, there are some fun and downright funny things out there we can buy for our dogs. Some are even handy!

When it’s warm however, we don’t see anything wrong with bringing home a small backyard plastic pool (generally meant for small children) for your pooch to chill out in. Get him in there and serve him up a ‘pupsicle’ and he’ll be loving the summer days as much as you do!

Around this time last year we shared this post: How to Protect Your Dog from Lyme Disease with the help of local Toronto-based vet, Bev Bateman at Eglinton Veterinary Facilities. Although Lyme disease still remains rare in town, we felt this was a post worth sharing again as the weather gets better and we’re out adventuring with our K9 buddies more.

Around this time last year we shared this post: How to Protect Your Dog from Lyme Disease with the help of local Toronto-based vet, Bev Bateman at Eglinton Veterinary Facilities. Although Lyme disease still remains rare in town, we felt this was a post worth sharing again as the weather gets better and we’re out adventuring with our K9 buddies more.

Last year there was a list of parks in Toronto in which ticks have been found. The immediate response is to avoid those parks. But the truth is that these little devils have migrated, quite uninvited, from the upper United States where they have largely and miraculously respected the border previously. Once they’ve made their way into an area, they can hitch a ride on squirrels, raccoons, birds and yes, even dogs. The good news for dogs is that there is a test and a lot of resources to learn about Lyme disease prevention.

It’s really best to arm yourself with a little knowledge. We truly hope that with a little awareness we can help prevent any ticks from coming into contact with our dogs, and the potential for Lyme disease.

So, here it is, a little knowledge:

Long grasses, beaches and wooded areas are most likely to harbor ticks (they like the same real estate we do).

There are some findings in Toronto, but they are still relatively infrequent.

The surrounding areas, especially as we city folk start to migrate to the country in the summer are more likely to be host to ticks.

Ticks don’t fly or jump. They can only crawl. Creepy bastards.

Once a tick is infected with Borrelia, it remains a carrier until it dies – something we’d encourage it to do quickly.

Only 5-10% of dogs found to be infected with Lyme are ever actually symptomatic.

While we dog owners have traditionally embarked on flea and tick from Spring to Fall, the mild and unpredictable winter we had is prompting some vets, including John Reeve-Newson of the Animal Clinic, to recommend year-round protection as something you may want to consider.

After a romp out in a long-grassed or wooded area, check your dog over.

Comb through your dog regularly to check.

You probably won’t see the tell-tale, generally circular skin rash on your dog, so be aware of symptoms.

Symptoms for dogs are similar to those in humans: lethargy, arthritis (often shown in shifting from foot to foot and lameness), fever, lack of appetite, fatigue, neurological problems and kidney damage. Nice, huh?

Be mindful that young ticks are most active in the spring.

Your vet has access to a reliable blood test. So if your vet suggests testing for Lyme, it’s a good idea.

Dogs can be vaccinated against Lyme disease; it’s a relatively new vaccine though. If you’re planning on being out of town with your dog and are worried that it may be a high risk area for ticks, call the local vet and ask what about their practice for defence

Like Dr. Reeve-Newson, Dr. Lindsay Patterson of Rosedale-Moore Park Vet suggests you talk to your vet about Bravecto an every-three-month chewable tablet that kills black-legged ticks and will defend your household from a carrier that drops off your dog and climbs onto you or your family.

How do you remove a tick? What do I do with the little freak?

If you find a tick on your dog, you’ll want to get some rubber gloves and some fine-tipped tweezers. Don’t squeeze or burn it off.

Grab it as close to the skin as possible; then pull the tick away from your dog’s skin gently but firmly. Make sure you’ve got the whole thing; anything left behind could lead to an infection.

Clean the skin with an antiseptic. Clean the tweezers and your hands thoroughly, too.

Give Rover a treat. He earned it.

Take a photo of the area and monitor it for continued irritation or infection.

We hope this leaves you ticked-off . . . uh . . . you know what we mean.

Camping trips are great summer time fun and there is no greater pleasure than spending it with your best friend! While dogs love the great outdoors, a little preparation will go a long way to ensure they have as much fun as you do on your next adventure.

Camping trips are great summer time fun and there is no greater pleasure than spending it with your best friend!

While dogs love the great outdoors, a little preparation will go a long way to ensure they have as much fun as you do on your next adventure.

Here are our top 7 tips for camping with your dog:

1. Try to Keep Things on Schedule

Dogs are creatures of habit, especially when it comes to feeding and walks. When you’re away remember he will be anticipating a similar routine, and will feel secure if that structure is in place while you’re on your trip. Try to stay on time with meal, and any medications you dog may be on.

2. Keep Things Familiar

New surroundings can be overwhelming and sometimes frightening for dogs. Help alleviate this stress by packing familiar things. Bring along their beds if they have one, or a couple of toys so that they can adjust to the new environment and feel more at home.

3. Bring Proper Leashes and Tie-up Screws

Most dog-friendly campsite require that you keep your dog on leash while on site and within the camp grounds. Pack their regular leash for walks, but also a longer one for while you’re hanging out at the campsite. Secure the leash with a metal tie-up steak so you’re not relying what ever is nearby. With so many distractions (squirrel!) it’s best to play it safe.

4. Be Prepared to Give Fido a Bath

Dogs get a little more dirty and smellier than usual while camping with all the opportunities to dig, roll and swim. A small bottle of biodegradable dog shampoo can make your pooch ready to snuggle up with you in your tent at the end of the day. And pack a couple of extra towels too.

5. Bring Extra Food

Make sure to pack enough food for the entire trip and maybe a couple days extra just in case. Don’t forget to keep an extra watchful eye for anything that they could get into at your campsite, or your neighbours for that matter! Avoid These Common Toxic Foods for Your Dog.

6. Reduce Travel Stress

Some dogs love being in the car. It’s a chance to take in all the new smells, let their tongues hang out and feel the breeze in their fur.

7. Safety First!

Bring along a doggie first aid kit so that you will be prepared while on the road. It’s also a good idea to have things like a safety light, bear bell, bug repellent and tick safety. Here's how to protect to dog from lyme disease. Finally, make sure they have their current identification and registration on their collars.

We hope these tips will make for more enjoyable Summer adventures with your dogs.

May 2017

As dog owners we can all relate to that warm and fuzzy feeling we get from being with our four-legged friends. We know we’re better off in many ways for having dogs around, but we thought it was worth highlighting a few of the top reasons dog ownership is actually good for our health and boosts our quality of life!

As dog owners we can all relate to that warm and fuzzy feeling we get from being with our four-legged friends. We know we’re better off in many ways for having dogs around, but we thought it was worth highlighting a few of the top reasons dog ownership is in fact good for our health and boosts our quality of life!

An apple a day, or should it be a dog a day?

Here are our favourite benefits of having a furry friend:

Companionship and Cuddles

Those of us who are long-term dog owners know that feeling when your pooch isn’t around. Sometimes you go to talk to your dog, or check for that little furnace next to you keeping you warm, or glance down at your feet where they are usually all curled up, you miss their presence. There’s a sense of companionship, safety and comfort when your dog is around. When it comes to cuddles, it’s not just us humans that benefit, dogs receive comfort and a sense of security much the same way.

Reduces Stress and Improves Mood

Simply having a dog around, or just spending a few minutes with one, can have a hugely positive effect on our moods. That perpetually happy face and wagging tail spreads an infectious good mood and can actually increase levels of serotonin and dopamine that contribute to calm and well-being. As dog owners we are less likely to suffer from depression that those without dogs. They are also great levelers, having a dog around has been proven to ease tensions whether it be in the office or at home.

Creates Routine and Keep Us Active

We all know the feeling, getting out for a walk can sometimes feel like the last thing you’d like to do. Yet, as dog owners our pups don’t care if we’ve had a busy day, or are feeling under the weather, they will always need to get out for some exercise. Luckily us owners reap the positive benefits of this too. Dog owners are more likely to be reaching the recommended levels of exercise on a weekly basis, keeping things like excess weight, cholesterol levels and our blood pressure healthy.

Expands Our Social Circles

With dogs getting us out more than our non-dog owner counterparts, it stands to reason that we have more opportunity to chat and engage with others. Research suggests that in fact, dog owners are better at at making friends and this comes more readily for them. Most dog owners have met someone either in the neighbourhood or dog park that they wouldn’t have otherwise, expanding both their social circles and a sense of community. Dog walking can also be a great way to alleviate social anxieties and be a buffer if you find it tough to engage with new people.

Teaches Responsibility and Gives Us Purpose

Dog ownership undoubtedly comes with a set of responsibilities that we’re all familiar with. We are primary caregivers for our furry friends and they rely on us, no matter what. Having a dog from a young age can help teach responsibility and to develop these skills that will transfer over into adulthood. Dogs also instill a sense purpose, they help us not to focus solely on our own needs, and it feels good to care for them knowing that we are needed.

Do you have any other ways that you’ve benefited from dog ownership? We’d love to hear how your pup has increased your quality of life, making the days that much better and brighter!

April 2017

As humans, we think about our nutrition and diet often. What are we putting into our bodies through the foods we eat; is it healthy, organic, dairy-free, gluten-free? Will it give me gas? Is it packed with the latest superfood? It’s common to see people checking out ingredients on the packaging of their grocery list items before tossing them into the basket or cart, so shouldn’t we be doing the same for our furry friends?

We know there are a ton of different food types and specific diets depending on your dog’s breed, energy level and age. Choosing an optimal diet for your pooch should be a discussion you have with your vet, but there are some ingredients that should be avoided full stop!

Here are the ingredients to look for, and avoid in your dog’s food:

By Product

This can be derivative of any meat or fish and consists of the internal remains of the animal which more often than not include diseased or compromised tissues and organs.

Corn Syrup/Corn

Corn is a very inexpensive filler that is commonly used and is very susceptible to mold or fungus growth. Also, there are 142 different types of genetically modified corn, the most of any plant species! Corn syrup is used to ‘sweeten’ and like the effects of too much sugar, this can result in excess weight gain, diabetes as well as kidney and liver damage.

Ethoxyquin

This is a preservative found in most dog foods. This is scary: it was originally developed as a herbicide, yikes! This ingredient has been linked to, and is associated with kidney and liver damage, not to mention immune system issues and some cancers.

BHT/BHA

Butylated-hydroxyanisole (BHA) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) these are two more harmful preservatives that can even be found in our food as well. Both BHA and BHT are added by pet food manufacturers to help prevent spoiling. These ingredients have been linked to the same damaging effects as Ethoxyquin, like kidney and liver damage and some cancers.

Propylene Glycol

AKA anti-freeze! Yes, this is found in auto care products too. Propylene Glycol is typically added to pet foods to help control moisture and reduce bacteria growth, and while it’s a common ingredient across a lot of consumer products it just begs the question: should we be feeding dogs something that goes into making anti-freeze, bearing in mind that dogs tend to eat the same food for each meal, day after day, month after month, even year after year.

As much as we all love dog ownership, there a certain times when it can be challenging, like when you need to leave town and your favourite four-legged friend can’t join you.

While you’re away you’ll want them to be as comfortable as possible, and maybe even have a little vacay of their own! It’s wonderful when you have a friend or family member who are willing to step up as dog sitter as their environment will remain familiar.

If not, reaching out to a trusted local dog boarding facility that offers home-style boarding or has a farm or ranch can be also be great option. This is especially easy if your dog has already been acquainted with them through dog walking or dog daycare visits.

Since Spring is here (kind of) and Summer is around the corner (hopefully), here are our top 5 things to do before you leave your dog for that getaway.

1. Plan Ahead

Don’t leave the details of your dog’s care until the last minute. It adds unnecessary stress and may make it tough to source quality care during peak vacation times.

2. Do Your Research

Look for environments that will best suit your pup’s personality. When reaching out to local businesses ask some basic questions like:

What the facility is like?

How much exercise your will your pup get?

How many other dogs will be there?

How much individual care they will have?

3. Update Your Dog’s IDs

Make sure your pup’s collar is equipped with your current contact info as well as any municipal registration license that may be needed.

4. Do What You Can to Alleviate Anxieties

Being away from you can be stressful for pooch. Here’s a few things you can do him to relax:

Pack a familiar item such bed, blanket or stuffy.

Skip the long good-byes. The more you fret over them when leaving the more likely they are to pick up on that energy.

Pick a care option that helps her stay in her normal routines.

5. Prepare a Care Cecklist

You can help your carers by giving them the following information:

Your contact info and any emergency contact numbers such as you vet’s office.

A specific feeding schedule and any medications needed.

Their general exercise routines and household habits like being allowed on furniture or having to sit calmly before heading out the door for a walk.

Wouldn’t it be amazing if our dogs could brush their own teeth!? For those of us who struggle with this task, that would be the dream, plus it would make for some pretty hilarious YouTube videos. Most dogs have a hard time allowing us to get anywhere near their teeth, let alone getting a toothbrush in there to give them a scrub.

The good news is that dogs are actually less prone to cavities than us humans, however regular teeth cleaning is just as important. Dog dental problems, if left untreated, can lead to more serious conditions or infections so it’s not just bad breath you should be worried about.

Here are 5 Essential Tips to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean:

1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth With the Right Products

It’s essential to use dog-specific brushes and toothpastes. Human products can contain chemicals and additives including fluoride which is poisonous to dogs. You can find toothpastes formulated for dogs at most pet stores or vet offices.

2. Start Them Early

If you have the option of getting your pup used to teeth brushing from a young age than do so. If not, grown dogs can become used to the task overtime with positive reinforcement and consistency.

3. Consider a Food that Helps with Teeth Cleaning

There are some foods that are formulated to help maintain good oral health in our dogs. Some dry food may be better for this as softer foods could have a tendency to stick to teeth and cause decay.

4. Bones and Toys

Just like certain types of foods, there are specially designed bones and toys that can help mitigate the build up of plaque and help strengthen dog’s teeth and gums. Just make sure you are providing dog-specific objects that are meant to improve your pup’s overall dental hygiene.

5. Know When to See a Veterinarian

Regardless of how often you’re brushing your dog’s teeth, it’s a good idea to take a look inside their mouths regularly. If you notice any of the following consult with your vet as it could be a sign of dental problems:

If you’re like us, you talk to your dog all the time. We share how our day was and ask them all sorts of questions, almost as if we’re expecting them to reply. I’m sure you’ve imagined what their voices would be like, you know you have! Tucker, the curly-haired Golden Doodle would have a laid back surfer-like voice, and Molly the Teacup Yorkie would have a posh accent, if she could speak.

Working at dog daycare Toronto, we have all kinds of different conversations with our canine friends. Our dogs actually are speaking back to us all the time with their body language. They are giving us all sorts of useful information that, if we’re paying attention to, can give us valuable insight into what’s going on with them. They are always communicating their emotional state and intentions through facial expressions and body postures.

What is My Dog’s Body Language Saying?

We came across this handy infographic that illustrates a variety of these expressions and postures that can allow us to decipher some of our dog’s most important messages.

Have a look at some common dog body language poses, starring Boogie the Boston Terrier:

As dog owners we all ask ourselves the same questions over time, like “can my dog eat that?” or “why does my dog look at me when he poops?”. We’ve had a go at cracking some of these curious questions in the past, and we’re always keen to dig up some of the best information for dog owners.

This time around it seems fitting with the theme of a "fresh start" in the new year, to scope out some of the best shampoo to use to wash a dog. Now, we know some dogs have a tendency to be more smelly than others, and it’s important to note that any extreme or mysterious odours should be checked out by your vet, but it’s safe to say that it’s no fun having a stinky dog around.

Some breeds can get away with minimal bathing depending on the length of their coats and likeliness to roll in dead animals, however most will need a good bath once and awhile!

Optional: 5 – 10 drops any combination of anti-flea essential oils including rosemary, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, spearmint, and citronella. Add a drop of each or purchase an anti-flea essential oil blend from a local herbalist or health food store. Add all ingredients into an old squirt bottle.

Shake before each use. Rinse well and avoid the eye area.

Did you know? Try finishing off your dog’s bath with an apple cider vinegar rinse. Add 1 part vinegar to 5 parts water. Be prepared for compliments at the dog park.